Nonfiction Writing with Digital Photography

Students in second grade begin their nonfiction writing by writing about a topic they are passionate about, and one in which they are an expert. Topics include things such as caring for a dog or cat, skateboarding, playing a particular sport.

After choosing their topic, students brainstorm the sections of their book. Each section will become a chapter. If students cannot produce at least five sections, they go back to their lists and choose another topic.

Using a digital camera, students will create photographs of their topic and sections for use in their books. Additionally, the photographs will serve as markers for the students to spur their text. Each photograph will allow students to create captions, as well as text that describes the action in the photograph.

The use of photography will enhance the students' understanding of the creation of nonfiction books, as well as expose them to a new art form, creating an additional enrichment activity.